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How to Reset the Linksys WRT54GS2

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Setup Router Staff
(Last Updated: ) | Reading Time: 3 minutes

On this page I will be showing you how to reset the Linksys WRT54GS2 router. There is a lot of confusion about the difference between a reset and a reboot. When you reset a router you take all the settings and return them to factory defaults. This means every setting you have ever changed is erased. When you reboot a router you are only cycling the power to the unit.

Warning: Resetting the router is a big step. It is a good idea to make a list of all the possible settings you have changed in the past. Some of these settings include:

  • The router's main username and password.
  • The WiFi settings such as the SSID and the Internet password.
  • Are you resetting a DSL router? If so you need to re-enter the Internet Service Provider (ISP) username and password. Call your local ISP for these details.
  • What other settings have you changed in the past? Don't forget to write these down as well.

Other Linksys WRT54GS2 Guides

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GS2. We also have the following guides for the same router:

Reset the Linksys WRT54GS2

Below is the image of the back panel of your Linksys WRT54GS2 router. This tiny little button is recessed to avoid accidentally resetting your router.

router reset factory settings
This is the reset page from your Linksys WRT54GS2 router.

The first step in this reset is to make sure the router is plugged in and powered on. The second step is to take a straightened paperclip or pen and press down on the reset button for about 10 seconds. If you don't hold this button down for long enough you might end up only rebooting the router instead of resetting it like you planned.

Warning: DO NOT unplug or turn off the router during the reset process. If you do you could permanently damage the router.

Finally remember a reset like this one erases all your personal data. I strongly recommend trying other methods of troubleshooting before you decide to reset.

Login to the Linksys WRT54GS2

After the Linksys WRT54GS2 router has been reset you will beed to login to it. To do this you will need to use the default login information. Need help logging into your router? You can find all the information you need in our Login Guide for the Linksys WRT54GS2 router.

Tip: Defaults not working? The router might have not been properly reset. Try resetting it again but hold down the reset button for a little longer this time.

Change Your Password

Next you will want to change the password for the router to something secure. Default passwords are easy to guess which means they should be replaced as soon as possible. Try to make your new password unique. If you need help making a password be sure to visit our Choosing a Strong Password guide.

Tip: Avoid losing your password by writing it down on a piece of paper and attaching it to the underside of the router.

Setup WiFi on the Linksys WRT54GS2

Finally it is time to start re-configuring the router's settings. Make sure that you also configure the WiFi settings. Not sure how to do this? Follow our Linksys WRT54GS2 WiFi Instructions to get started on securing your router.

Linksys WRT54GS2 Help

Be sure to check out our other Linksys WRT54GS2 info that you might be interested in.

This is the reset router guide for the Linksys WRT54GS2. We also have the following guides for the same router: